The Hook
Data literacy and making sense of the world
About This Conversation
Data and statistics are regularly trotted out by people trying to persuade reluctant audiences. However, sometimes, this data can be misleading depending on the context of its use. On the other hand, we frequently misinterpret data and statistics depending on our past beliefs on a topic. Tim Harford, known as the "Undercover Economist," is a Financial Times columnist, BBC broadcaster, and the author of nine books (most recently “How To Make The World Add Up” / “The Data Detective”) and the host of the podcast “Cautionary Tales.” Today, he discusses how to read statics and data with a critical eye. He explains how to examine the numbers and the intent behind them in order to observe a full picture of the world.
Recurring Questions
Recurring Question
"What books have had an impact on you?"
For Young Listeners
"What advice do you have for teenagers?"
Resources Mentioned
Guest Bio
Tim Harford is the Financial Times columnist, BBC broadcaster, and author of nine books (most recently How To Make The World Add Up/The Data Detective ) and the podcast Cautionary Tales . Having statistics and data in a book or backing up an argument instantly makes it more credible. People are more likely to agree with you if you have study after study proving your point. However, we have gotten to the point where people can be weary of statistics and data. They believe that numbers and studies are used to mislead us and take us down a path of deception. That their only purpose is for us to believe and then spread the authors concepts or ideas. Tim Harford, author of The Data Detective , shows us how powerful and fun statistics can be if we use them correctly! Statistics can be used for good and not just to mislead the ignorant. Tim Harford is helping us all take a little step back and embrace the data and statistics that we are usually so skeptical to believe.
If you would like to check out his books visit: timharford.com/books
If you would like to check out his podcast visit: timharford.com/etc/more-or-less
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